Is it a good idea to get a spare set of steel wheels and winter tires from Costco for the HCH2? The tires are Michelin XIce. I'm wondering if anyone has used those? Any suggestions?

In Canada, yes I would.
Many swear by the Blizzaks, but I've heard good things about the Xice also. Living in the Dallas area, I have little need, other than the once or twice-a-year nasty ice storm

Steve

STOP terrorism - Drive a HYBRID

Vehicles:
350 miles a week ------------ 2006 HCH II, Magnetic Pearl, w/NAVI (born on May 25, 2006)
350 miles a month ---------- 2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6
350 miles a year (for now) - 1986 Mercedes 560SL

I would say YES, that is a good idea.

For comparison, I will be getting a cheap set of alum wheels and Blizzack shipped from the Tirerack for about $667. I'm sure Costco can beat that.

http://greenhybrid.com/compare/mileage/car/3686.html

http://greenhybrid.com/compare/mileage/car/4955.html

I've heard bad things about Costco tires - that they're rejects and drive very poorly. Our dealer actually demonstrated the difference between an OEM and Costco tire with the same identification # for us - the OEM was nice and firm with more tread, the Costco one squishy with less tread. Granted, it could just be the dealer trying to sell us tires, but I know they don't mark up the OEM ones they sell, so it seemed legit. So, take from it what you will.

That seems very suspect.

BTW, you want winter tires to be "squishy".

http://greenhybrid.com/compare/mileage/car/3686.html

http://greenhybrid.com/compare/mileage/car/4955.html